Excelling in your career is as much about what you do as what you don’t do. Sure, working hard (and smart), not picking fights, and being decent are all great ways to advance your career and make more money.
But you could be making mistakes right now that you aren’t aware of, which can kill your career and, as a result, your income. Don’t let these blunders sabotage your success.
Here are 17 career-killing blunders to stop doing NOW.
Forgetting About Your Health
Taking our health for granted is a mistake many make until it’s too late, and this is especially true for those who sit behind a desk most of the day. Sitting all day without getting exercise is a recipe for disaster. And you’re not doing your career any favors by doing that.
Neglecting regular exercise, a balanced diet and medical check-ups can lead to serious health issues that might have been prevented. Remember, your health is your most valuable asset, and it will directly impact your career.
Burning Bridges
One of the most common mistakes people make is burning bridges in personal and professional relationships. Remember that it’s a small world out there, and chances are you’ll see those same people again in the future.
We often underestimate the importance of maintaining connections, and in the heat of the moment, we say or do things that can damage those relationships irreparably. It’s a reminder that nurturing relationships is as important as any other aspect of life.
Not Investing
Earning a big salary is great, but that’s not how people get rich. People build wealth by investing, not by receiving salaries. Automation makes it easy.
Investing at least 10% of your wealth (though 20% is better) over a career will drastically improve your retirement and quality of life as you age.
If you aren’t investing, start now. Here’s how.
Living Beyond Your Means
Overspending and accumulating debt is a mistake that can create a never-ending cycle of financial stress, and this mistake is far too easy to make. As our salaries go up, so does our lifestyle. And when that happens, we risk saddling ourselves with a mountain of debt because we feel we can afford things we shouldn’t spend money on.
Learning to budget and live within your means is crucial for financial stability and peace of mind.
Not Pursuing Passions
Many people regret not following their passions and dreams. They may have chosen a career path for stability or societal approval rather than pursuing what truly makes them happy. While there is a lot of wisdom in NOT making your career your passion, finding time to pursue those passions outside the office is still wise.
It’s a reminder that life is too short not to follow your heart.
Procrastination
Procrastination can steal precious time from your life. Those undone projects and delayed goals can accumulate, leaving you overwhelmed and regretful. Learning to manage your time and tackle tasks promptly can save you from this mistake.
And let’s be honest: Most of us feel better once we get those tasks that we don’t want to do done, right?
Neglecting Family Time
In pursuing success, it’s easy to neglect spending quality time with your family. Later in life, you may regret missing out on important moments. Family should always be a priority.
Not Saving for Retirement
Failing to save for retirement is a mistake that can lead to financial struggles in your later years. Starting early and consistently saving for retirement is essential to secure your financial future.
Holding Grudges
Holding onto grudges and resentment can destroy your happiness and inner peace. Learning to forgive and let go is a valuable lesson in personal growth.
Ignoring Mental Health
Mental health needs attention like physical health. Ignoring signs of stress, anxiety, or depression can lead to long-term consequences. Seeking help and practicing self-care is crucial.
Not Pursuing Education
Education is a lifelong journey. Regret often stems from not pursuing opportunities to learn and grow. Continuous learning can open doors you never imagined, whether formal education or self-study.
Ignoring The Environment
Overlooking your environmental impact is a mistake that affects you and future generations. It’s essential to be mindful of your carbon footprint and make sustainable choices.
Neglecting Personal Growth
Stagnation can lead to regret. Neglecting personal growth and self-improvement can limit your potential. Embrace change and challenge yourself to become the best version of yourself.
Fearing Failure
Fear of failure often keeps people from pursuing their dreams. However, every successful person has faced failure at some point. Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success.
Not Traveling
Traveling can broaden your horizons and expose you to different cultures and perspectives. You can learn more about the world by traveling than reading books. Not taking the opportunity to explore the world can be a regret you carry.
Not Expressing Yourself
Many regret not expressing their feelings, whether telling someone they love them or speaking up about their thoughts and opinions. Open and honest communication is vital in personal relationships.
Sacrificing Happiness for Others
Lastly, one of the biggest mistakes is sacrificing your happiness for others’ expectations or desires. While being considerate is important, your happiness should not be compromised too long. Striking a balance between your needs and others can lead to a more fulfilling life.
